Jacques-Yves Cousteau (11/06/1910 - 25/06/1997), was instrumental in promoting the wonders of the oceans to all and especially our need to protect their resources and ecology. The majority of his work in this field was carried out long before such matters were even considered by a large section of the worlds' population. (Please see the Cousteau Pages for more information about the man).

Thankfully these days, being 'green' is seen to be fashionable however, despite the good work being done by many organisations and individuals to protect the environment, much has still to be done and can be done! Divers, more than any other section of the community are aware of the wonders to behold beneath the sea and we are privileged to be able to witness all that the oceans contain at first hand and at close quarters. Because of our affinity with the seas, shouldn't we all try to help the cause of marine conservation in any way, no matter how small?

As many SAA members will already know, the official magazine of our association 'Scuba World' in partnership with WildAid, has launched the Support A Shark Campaign. This cause is supported by David Jason (of 'Del Boy' & 'D/Inspector Jack Frost' TV fame). David has recently been instrumental in bring the wonders of the ocean and the sport of diving back to television in Britain with a fine series of documentaries about the subjects. (The SAA Mission Statement on Marine Conservation can be found HERE along with notes from the SAA Marine Conservation Officer)

The WWF was set up in 1961 by a small but eminent group of people, including Sir Peter Scott, the well-known naturalist and wildlife painter.

Internationally, WWF projects now contribute to the conservation of natural habitats such as forests, grasslands, wetlands, coasts and marine areas. It works closely with local and indigenous people to find long-term practical solutions to the over-exploitation of natural resources.

Sharks have crossed our oceans for millions of years and are without any doubt its greatest predators. "Today the hunter has become the hunted"

It is a fact that sharks are at the top of the food chain, but each year, millions of them get killed. Their reproductive circle is already threatened. As a result, the marine ecosystem is breaking down and the Sharks are not the only marine species in danger! To help the fragile ecosystem of the worlds' oceans, why not sign the Interdive.Com worldwide "signature list " action. (Interdive.Com is a site based in Germany).

We can all start to do something to benefit the marine environment when we dive and a good Aide Memoir can be found in the leaflet 10 Ways for a Diver to protect The Underwater Environment (.pdf).

This information is actually produced by PADI (as part of Project A.W.A.R.E.) however, the guidelines for eco-friendly diving contained in it should be of interest to all divers concerned about the marine environment.

(PADI have established this section of project A.W.A.R.E. for protecting "shark retreat areas").